Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is like a warm hug from your Italian grandmother, if she were a pasta dish. Imagine the gooey cheese melting into perfectly cooked ziti, while the rich, meaty sauce envelops each piece like a cozy blanket. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a delightful way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table.
Bringing this recipe to life brings back memories of chaotic family gatherings, where laughter filled the air and plates emptied faster than you could say “Baked Ziti with Ground Beef.” Each bite is a reminder of love and togetherness, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting baked ziti with ground beef is easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights
- With layers of cheesy goodness and savory meat sauce, it visually impresses anyone at the table
- You can easily customize ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs
- It’s versatile enough to make ahead or freeze for later enjoyment!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it in minutes and demanded seconds. They even asked for leftovers, which is unheard of in my house.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ziti Pasta: Choose sturdy ziti for perfect al dente texture; other shapes can work but ziti holds sauce better.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for flavor without excess grease; feel free to substitute with turkey or veggie mix.
Marinara Sauce: Opt for high-quality jarred sauce or homemade; it’s the backbone of flavor in this dish.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; don’t skip this step unless you want dry ziti!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go heavy on the mozzarella; it melts beautifully and creates that gooey layer we all love.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan elevates the dish with its nutty flavor; sprinkle generously on top before baking.
Fresh Basil (optional): Chopped fresh basil adds brightness; toss it in right before serving for an aromatic finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously once boiling. Cook ziti until just al dente—about 8-10 minutes—then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes—breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Flavorful Sauces: Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. This allows flavors to meld while filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Create the Cheesy Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and some parmesan. Mix well until creamy and inviting!
Assemble Your Ziti Dish: In a large baking dish, layer half of your meat sauce followed by half of the cooked ziti. Spoon dollops of cheesy mixture over pasta; repeat layering until everything is used up.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
When you pull that bubbling tray out of the oven, let it cool slightly before diving in—if you can wait! Each forkful will be bursting with cheesy goodness that makes every effort worth it.
Enjoy your homemade Baked Ziti with Ground Beef as part of joyful gatherings or comforting solo nights on the couch. Every bite carries warmth, laughter, and perhaps just a hint of nostalgia!
You Must Know
- Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a comforting classic that offers layers of flavor
- The melty cheese, savory beef, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that warms the soul
- Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet while boiling the pasta. This multitasking ensures everything is hot and ready to combine at the same time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients. Customize the cheese blend to suit your taste—mozzarella and ricotta are classics.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays deliciously cheesy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect baked ziti, ensure your pasta is al dente before baking
- Layering cheese in between adds creaminess, while allowing some cheese on top creates that delightful golden crust
- Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking!
There was that one time I made Baked Ziti with Ground Beef for a family gathering, and everyone devoured it faster than I could serve! The kids were asking for seconds while the adults reminisced about their own childhood favorites. It felt like a warm hug on a plate.
FAQ
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply substitute ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes, it freezes well! Just wrap tightly and store in an airtight container for up to three months.
What sides pair well with baked ziti?
A simple green salad or garlic bread complements baked ziti perfectly, balancing flavors beautifully.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a comforting, cheesy delight that brings the warmth of an Italian family dinner to your table. This dish features al dente ziti pasta enveloped in a rich meat sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this baked ziti will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ziti: Boil salted water and cook ziti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the meat sauce: In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce; let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and some Parmesan until creamy.
- Assemble: In a baking dish, layer half of the meat sauce, followed by half of the ziti, then dollops of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
